Learning Spaces

Issue CS4.1

A historic water mill remodelled as an engineering academy will open to students in 2010. Neil Donaldson reports on the design and construction process that is giving a community pride in its engineering heritage.

Zero carbon schools – are they possible? Not with the current targets that expect every school to become a miniature power station, argues Richard Brailsford. But the targets are achievable if we take a holistic approach, Richard says – and encourage whole towns to work together to meet their energy needs with renewables.

BSF is the billion pound cash injection the construction industry needs. But the bids will be won by the firms who have a thorough knowledge of the complicated, and often bureaucratic, system. Paul Thomas shares his advice.

A host of 14-19 diploma students are anxious to start in September – dreaming of industry-standard technology and learning spaces. Jane Abbot, Nick Williams, Sarah Hopkins and Valerie Bragg check out creative school designs for diploma students across the country.

Even the latest version of the CABE reviews doesn’t take into account the restrictions school designers have to overcome. They also drag down a whole score for one mark. Caroline Buckingham has had enough - and is demanding a fair, points-based system.

Fantasising about knocking the school down and starting again is fine if you’ve got a bulging wallet. But there’s no need to throw the baby out with the bath water – a refurb and remodel is often the smartest design move, says Paul Turpin.

'Learning outside the classroom' is an initiative inspiring not just teachers, but also architects. Helen Nichols reports on inspiring projects getting communities to make the most of their outdoor environments.

Designers always claim their classrooms are revolutionary - but we’re still seeing the same rows of moulded plastic chairs and tables in boxy classrooms. Not so in the New Line Learning academy’s Plaza – it’s unlike any classroom we’ve seen before. Lucy Busuttil reports.

LG has announced the launch of a range of Network monitors – which use thin client technology. Alexandra Vinall met Warren Lewis, the LG Business Solutions general manager, to ask why this technology is so exciting.

Off-site construction sounds like a gift from heaven - you get a brand new school with none of the disruption of building work. But make sure you’re choosing a reliable contractor - with these top ten tips from David Johnson.